A Greener Tradition

Over 55 years of greener thinking.

Gregory Kasparian was considering the environment long before the colour green was in style. After taking over the business from his father in the early 1960s, Kasparian’s architect advised him not to bother with insulation, seeing as natural gas was so inexpensive. Kasparian did something that was then uncommon, but what he felt was right. Forgoing the cheap route, he insulated the entire building in order to save energy instead of money.

Kasparian was determined to minimize the amount of water used to clean hundreds of rugs coming through Turco Persian every week. So, he installed automatic shut-off sensors that close the taps when there's no rug on the wash line. As a result, Turco Persian’s water usage was reduced by half. Kasparian was one of the first businesses to sign up with Bullfrog Power, the first 100% green electricity retailer in Ontario. Bullfrog's energy mix comes entirely from wind and low-impact power sources, Even though it costs Kasparian an average of $450 more per month, he says it’s a small price to pay.

Turco Persian now uses a hot-water heating system designed by QuikWater that is 99% efficient. Fluorescent lights have been equipped with electronic regulators, now using one-third less electricity. Turco Persian also uses a locally made soap that is biodegradable and free of harsh detergents.

The air in the drying room was once vented outside, until Kasparian spent $48,000 to install an intricate system that re-circulates air and heats the water used to clean rugs, saving $20,000 a year in gas bills and excess energy.

While Kasparian and his daughter continue to do their part, they consider their efforts only small steps to reducing their footprint. Further plans include the installation of solar panels, as well as other initiatives for a greener future.